Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is the most common bone disorder in the United States. Bone mass is decreased, and porosity and fragility are increased. Dual-beam photon absorptiometry is currently considered the best detection technique. Prevention involves increased calcium intake and avoidance of diets high in protein and phosphates, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking. Estrogen therapy is recommended for most oophorectomized or postmenopausal women, at least for a few years. The addition of progestins to the regimen reduces the risk of endometrial cancer.